How to Deal With Locked Keys in Car UK

If you've locked your keys inside your car the UK, it can be an extremely stressful situation. There are a variety of ways to get your keys back but you must always exercise extreme caution, particularly in the case of children or vulnerable individuals trapped in.

The RAC recommends that you try to recover your keys before calling the police. DIY methods can harm the interior of your vehicle and should be only used as a last resort.

Do It Yourself

Locking your keys in your car or boot is an easy mistake to make. It's more frustrating when you're miles from your home and cannot get into your car. Fortunately, there are several options to deal with this issue. The most important thing is to remain calm and evaluate the situation. The next step is to try to figure out how to get to get out of the car without causing any damage to it. There are a myriad of ways to do this, ranging from using coat hangers to testing out different apps and methods. The most important thing to remember is not to panic, as this will only cause the situation to get worse.

You can make use of a spare car keys to open the vehicle. If your car has manual locks this is a good solution. If it's an automated vehicle, you might have to look for a different method. You can also use an extended reach tool, which is a rod with hook or loop at the end. This can be used to reach the door or boot lock and unlock it.

Another option is to try to find the vehicle identification number (VIN) by taking a look at the dashboard panel on the dashboard. The VIN is usually visible, but it can sometimes be hidden behind a cover. You can also find your VIN on your insurance documents or on your proof of insurance card. If you can't find it, you may need to contact a locksmith.

It is always an excellent idea to leave an extra key with someone you can trust. This will let you return to your vehicle in the event that you lose your keys, and will help you avoid the expense of calling an expert. You may also want to think about putting the spare in a safe place like your home.

Keep an extra slim Jim or another lockout tool for your car. These tools are useful for getting into your car in the case of an emergency and they are inexpensive to purchase.

Call Your Breakdown Provider

Many cars have roadside assistance in the standard package and if you're member of the AA or RAC then this is your first port of contact. This usually covers the cost of calling a locksmith and getting you back in your car. Contact your provider directly if you are unsure of what is covered under your breakdown policy, or whether there is an additional charge.

It's also worth checking whether you have 'key assist' as part of your policy. It's often an optional feature however some companies such as Start Rescue make it a standard element of their policies. If you lock your keys in your car, they will pay for a locksmith arrive and take your keys to your home or garage.

It is important not to take extreme measures while locked out of your vehicle. This can damage the vehicle and could make your insurance invalid, so it's never an ideal idea. Avoid breaking windows as it can make it harder to enter the vehicle.

There's no reason to contact emergency services unless your car is in an unsafe location or you have children or pets in the car. You should also call the police if you think there's the possibility of suffering from heatstroke or other health issues.

If you're worried about locking your keys in your car in the future it's a good idea leave the spare key with someone in your family or a friend. You can also use a smartphone app that allows you to unlock your car without keys that are physically present. This service is offered by many manufacturers, including BMW Mercedes and Vauxhall. If you own a smart car you should also look into its companion app that allows you to control the key features of your car remotely through an app on your phone. Alternatively, many garages can create a duplicate key for you, so if have a reliable mechanic in your area it could be an option.

Contact a locksmith

Locking your keys in your car is a common occurrence, especially for commuters to work or school. If you have an extra car key or an app for your smartphone that unlocks the doors, this is an easy problem to solve. If you don't have the tools, it's time to call the experts.

The first thing you need to do if you've locked the keys to your car is to breathe deeply and try not to get stressed. If you panic it will be harder to think straight or come up with a good solution. It is also an excellent idea to begin looking online for locksmiths close to you who specialize in access to vehicles. This will ensure that a professional arrives at your place quickly, making the process less stressful.

If you are an employee of a breakdown provider like the RAC or AA then this should be your first port of call. They are usually capable of gaining access into your vehicle without causing any damage to it, but if they are not able to do this, they'll recommend an experienced locksmith in dealing with vehicles. This service may be provided free car unlock service of charge or for the cost of a fixed amount, based on the insurance policy you have.

Another option is to contact an individual locksmith, but it's crucial to do this with caution. You can locate an accredited and DBS-checked locksmith by searching online. You can also find out online if your chosen locksmith is independently accredited by the Master Locksmiths Association.

If they're locked out of the car, a lot of people go to their local garage. However, this could be more expensive than hiring a professional. They are less expensive than attempting your own luck to unlock the vehicle and complete the task much quicker.

If you are in a public area and believe that there is a risk to other road users, or that there could be children, elderly or pets in your vehicle and you are concerned about safety, it is recommended to call the police. However, it is always recommended that you call your breakdown provider or an expert Auto Locksmith first before doing this, as they will be able to offer advice and support in these scenarios.

Call the police

When you're on the go it's easy to forget your keys in your car. This is especially true if not at home. This is a very risky and stressful situation to be in if you are in the middle nowhere, miles away from anyone. It's tempting to find your keys by yourself but it's not a wise idea. Intentionally forcing locks or break windows can damage your vehicle and cost you more in the end.

The first thing to take note of the situation Are you in a secure location and where do you go to get back in your car? Then, make sure that your keys really are locked inside - it's amazing how often people leave keys in their cars when they visit an establishment or post office. If you're able to confirm your keys are still in the car, it's now time to call for assistance.

If the police cannot unlock car services your car, they will help you to find the solution. They can give advice and recommend professionals locksmith or garage. They can also tell you if your car comes with the option of locking via remote and if this can be activated by your phone. You can also leave an extra key with someone who has the ability to access your vehicle and use the app on their smartphone to unlock the doors and boot.

While it's never ideal to lock your keys in your car, it's better to be prepared for this situation. If you remain calm and evaluate your options, you'll be able to quickly fix the issue. To avoid lockouts in the future Always carry an extra key, keep the emergency number for your breakdown service on hand and think about purchasing an invisible key device that attaches to your car. Install an alarm system inside your car and reprogram keys to disable access to previous owners. This will also stop thieves from using your car as a way to steal their own sets of keys.